Yankees to honor Robinson, Mandela

The Yankees will honor Jackie Robinson as they do every year on April 15; they’ll wear the number 42 which has been retired across baseball to honor a man who broke the color barrier with his bravery and talent. The Yankees also plan to honor the late Nelson Mandela with a plaque in monument park, celebrating his life and commemorating his June 21, 1990 visit to Yankee Stadium. Rachel and Sharron Robinson, Bud Selig, Harry Belafonte and Zondwa Mandela (Mandela’s grandson), will be in the Bronx tonight for the ceremony.

“Jackie Robinson is an American icon whose accomplishments and leadership continue to inspire us in Baseball and our society at large,” Selig said. “Major League Baseball proudly celebrates his enduring legacy, which is reflected by extraordinary on-field diversity of players from all backgrounds, enthusiastic participation in youth baseball and softball, and proven results in diverse business efforts.”

“I am quite proud that when Jack stepped onto the field on April 15, 1947, and broke the color barrier in baseball, he helped to further social change in America,” Rachel Robinson said. “On behalf of our family and the Jackie Robinson Foundation, we are thrilled that Major League Baseball continues to honor him and works to ensure that what he stood for will not be forgotten by future generations.”